Jack Della Maddalena's Title Reign Ends as Islam Makhachev Defends Welterweight Crown

Islam Makhachev is set to defend his UFC welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on August 15. However, his reign is already being compared to Jack Della Maddalena's record-breaking run, which Makhachev ended last year at UFC 322.

What happened?

Makhachev returns to the Octagon after winning 16 fights in a row, and if he beats Machado Garry, he will break the UFC's all-time win streak record that he currently co-owns alongside Anderson Silva. Makhachev's dominance has earned praise from UFC legend Cain Velasquez, who credits his AKA teammate's masterful approach to MMA.

Speaking to Red Corner MMA, Velasquez said that Makhachev is a "master" of the sport. "He's a special type of athlete, as we all know. He's one of those guys at the pinnacle of this sport. I talk with Javier (Mendez) all the time, and Islam and those guys are always doing great. They're in great hands. Javier is the one who builds champions," Velasquez said.

Why it matters for Jack Della Maddalena

Makhachev's win streak is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. His ability to dominate opponents has earned him a reputation as one of the best welterweights in the world. Jack Della Maddalena's record-breaking run may have ended, but Makhachev's reign is just beginning.

What comes next?

When Makhachev steps back into the Octagon against Machado Garry, he will be a -300 betting favorite to defend his title. As good as Machado Garry is, and as confident as the title challenger is heading into UFC 330, it's very difficult to bet against someone who has won 16 fights in a row and who holds a 17-1 UFC record. Machado Garry holds several advantages in terms of his height, length, and reach, but Makhachev has elite grappling skills and is a good striker in his own right.

It's going to be fascinating to see how this fight plays out, but either way, Makhachev's place in UFC history books has already been written. His dominance has earned him a reputation as one of the best welterweights in the world, and his win streak is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.

category: player_focus